United Nations, Muharram 29, 1433, Dec 24, 2011, SPA - U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Friday said he is “gravely concerned at the escalating violence in Syria” following explosions in Damascus that have reportedly killed up to 40 people, according to Syria’s state media. “The Secretary-General is gravely concerned at the escalating violence in Syria,” Ban’s office said in a statement. “Today’s explosions in Damascus, which resulted in more deaths and injuries, underscore his growing concerns. He emphasizes that all violence is unacceptable and must stop immediately.” Ban reiterated his call for a political transition in Syria and urged the full implementation of the Arab League plan. He also welcomed the deployment of Arab League monitors to Syria. “The Secretary-General urges the need for a credible, inclusive and legitimate Syrian-led process of comprehensive political change that will address the democratic aspirations of the Syrian people,” the statement from his office said. “The Syrian Government should fully and speedily implement the peace plan put forward by the League of Arab States,” the statement added. “In this regard, the Secretary-General welcomes the arrival of the advance team of the Arab League and looks forward to the deployment of the full-scale observer mission, which must be given unhindered access.” --SPA 11:20 LOCAL TIME 08:20 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/955351